New York, USA—Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), has announced Liberia’s ratification of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Treaty during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) High-Level Segment on September 24.
By Selma Lomax [email protected]
Dr. Yarkpawolo emphasized Liberia’s commitment to safeguarding its coastal waters, vital for the nation’s economy and food security.
“Liberia is blessed with one of Africa’s longest coastlines, over 350 miles along the Atlantic Ocean. Our rich marine resources sustain fisheries, mangrove forests, and biodiversity crucial for thousands of Liberians,” he stated.
Dr. Yarkpawolo said the ocean plays pivotal role in food security and climate resilience, especially the blue carbon ecosystems, stressing that, “For us, the ocean is not just a resource; it is a lifeline.”
As BBNJ Treaty aim to protect 30% of the world’s high seas through Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), Dr. Yarkpawolo reiterated the urgency of this initiative, stating it is essential for preserving Liberia’s ocean-dependent economy and communities.
Additionally, he announced Liberia’s intent to ratify the Minamata Convention on Mercury, reinforcing its commitment to combat illegal fishing and promote sustainable practices.
“This treaty is not just an environmental necessity but an economic imperative,” Dr. Yarkpawolo said, urging for greater regional and global collaboration.
He called on partners such as ECOWAS and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) to support the swift ratification and implementation of the treaty.
At the same time, Dr. Yarkpawolo used the occasion to call on nations and organizations to take action in the fight for ocean conservation, stressing the importance of securing resources for future generations.
The BBNJ Treaty, adopted by the UN on June 19, 2023, is the third implementing agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
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